Rule of Six: Here's what you can and cannot do in Luton

New rules banning social gatherings of more than six people have been introduced across England from Monday in a bid to slow the rise in coronavirus cases.

Boris Johnson's he 'Rule of Six' replaces the ban on gatherings of more than 30 and guidance on allowing two households to meet indoors.

It is designed make it easier for the police to identify and disperse illegal gatherings.

New regulations are enforceable by law and police have the power to issue £100 fines, doubling up to £3,200 for repeat offenders.

So, here is a run down of what you should and should not be doing from today:

- Gatherings of more than six people are illegal, both indoors and outdoors, unless it meets one of a limited list of exemptions.

- Households or support bubbles of more than six people can still gather.

- Groups of more than six people are allowed for work or education.

- Places of worship, gyms, restaurants and hospitality settings can still hold more than six people in total.

- Weddings and funerals are also exempt, with up to 30 people allowed to attend.

- Organised team sports carried out in a "Covid-secure way" can have more than six people.

- The "Rule of Six" applies to all ages in England.

- Social venues such as pubs and restaurants are legally required to request test and trace information from customers and keep the details for 21 days.

The government has introduced simplified instructions for keeping yourself and others safe.

Hands – wash your hands regularly and for 20 seconds

Face – wear a face covering in indoor settings where social distancing may be difficult and where you will come into contact with people you do not normally meet

Space – stay two metres apart from people you do not live with where possible.

You also must book a test and self-isolate if you think you have symptoms of coronavirus.

On Friday, the government announced that it was no longer classing Luton as an area of special concern, which it was for a number of weeks after we have had one of the highest infection rates in the country.

Last week, Luton had moved to below the national average infection rate, but our rate has crept up again this week after an increase in positive cases this week demonstrating just how difficult it can be to control this deadly virus.

Councillor Khtija Malik, portfolio holder for Public Health, said: “Moving off the government watch list is great news for the town and is testament to the efforts of all Luton residents who have made great efforts to reduce the spread of Covid-19.

“Thank you also for the huge numbers of local people who came forward to get tested which has helped us manage local outbreaks. This demonstrates that in the face of something as life-threatening as the current pandemic, the people of Luton have worked together for not only their family and friends, but for the benefit of the wider community.

“As the current national situation shows, we can never be complacent, and we must continue to be vigilant. While many of you will be delighted to be able to visit other people’s homes once again from Monday, please remember that no more than six people will be allowed to gather in this way and you must keep a safe distance at all times.​

“It is also worthwhile remembering that all this new guidance will become a legal requirement and the police will be given powers to enforce people to comply if it becomes necessary."

For more information see Coronavirus outbreak FAQs: what you can and can't do.Gerry Taylor, corporate director for Public Health, added: “On the 14 September, we begin a new phase but it is important that we don’t forget the lessons we have already learnt for our protection.

"Therefore, and in line with government guidelines, it’s vital we all regularly wash our hands, keep a two metre distance from others, wear face coverings in enclosed spaces, limit interactions with people we don’t live with and self-isolate and book a test at the first sign of coronavirus symptoms.”